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During an intense 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.

The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.